leucocidin
/ˌluːkəˈsaɪdɪn/
noun
- A toxic substance produced by certain bacteria that destroys white blood cells.
- Leucocidin targets white blood cells, weakening the body's defenses against disease.
- The bacterium Staphylococcus aureus produces leucocidin, which helps it evade the immune system.
- Scientists are studying leucocidin to develop new treatments for bacterial infections.